Portable technology replacing pillow talk

Technology-addicted professionals just can’t keep their hands off their laptops, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and smart phones, as new technology continues to transform the way we live and work.

In a recent work-life study from Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, 85 per cent of US professionals surveyed said that because of modern technology, they feel compelled to be connected to work 24/7 and 81 per cent say they work harder now than they did five years ago.

Just how technology-addicted is our society? A whopping 87 per cent of professionals bring their PDA into the bedroom and, in a potentially related finding, more than one-third of folks surveyed (35 per cent) say if forced to choose, they’d pick their PDA over their spouse!

The vast majority of people (84 per cent) also say they check their PDAs just before going to bed and as soon as they wake up, 85 per cent say they sneak a peak at their PDA in the middle of the night and 80 per cent say they check their e-mail before morning coffee.

The Sheraton survey also revealed that, although we’re working harder and new technology means we’re never truly off the clock, it also enables us to spend more time away from the office and with family and friends.

The days of being chained to a desk are over: 85% say that PDA’s and cell phones allow them to spend more time out of the office and 79 per cent feel they can be just as productive outside of the office as opposed to inside. Most people feel that technology gives them more quality time and flexibility with family and friends (84 per cent), 77 per cent say their PDA helps them enjoy life more and 62 per cent love their PDA.

Sheraton commissioned the work-life study to launch a new signature offering, Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft, a unique lobby lounge that enables guests to stay connected, work and socialise through free WiFi and internet-enabled computer stations, video-chats, televisions and daily newspapers.

The vast majority of professionals surveyed (88 per cent) say new technology makes business travel easier or more seamless and 85 per cent say new technology helps them stay better connected to family and friends when travelling on business.

The study was conducted by Studylogic, who surveyed 6,500 workplace professionals via phone with an individual income of €36,660 plus, went on two or more business trips a year and own a Blackberry or mobile email device. Five countries were surveyed, including the US, China, Australia, the United Kingdom and Germany.